CARE SHEET - MADAGASCAR GROUND BOA

Scientific name
Acrantophis madagascariensis
Cites status
Cites Appendix I, obligation to keep records and to register.
Geographical Extension
North and north-western Madagascar
Habitat
Semi-moist to moist forests
Size
Over 2m
Adult females can be up to 10 feet (3.05 metres), males are typically smaller, and the
average size of the population is 8 feet (2.44 m) in length
Description
The color pattern consists of a pale reddish-brown ground color mixed with gray, overlaid
with a pattern dorsal rhombs outlined with black or brown. Sometimes this creates a
vague zigzag impression. The sides are patterned a series of black ovoid markings with
reddish blotches, often bordered or centered with white.
Life Expectancy
Over 25 years
Reproduction
Mating takes place after emerging from hibernation. Females may be courted by and
copulate with more than one male. Ovoviviparous, females give birth to 4-6 large young

after a long gestation period of 4-6 months. Neonates are 19-24 inches (48-61 cm) in
length and are already capable of feeding on small rodents and birds.
Temperature
Ground temperature between 26-28C, local basking spot up to 33C. At night reduce to
24C.
Humidity
60-90%
Lighting
Fluorescent or compact or tubes Repti Glo 2 or similar.
Substrate
Aspen, Beech chips Orchid or Repti bark.
Dcor
Branches for climbing, various hiding places and a large water bowl make up the basic
setup for the vivarium
Food
Mice, rats and day old chicks
John Gamesby